They all have different motivating forces behind the pursuit of a college degree. But the outcome is similar. Happy faces, proud families and a huge sense of accomplishment. MNU graduates celebrate the achievement of a dream.

Hilda Nguthu-Bell ('12) and daughter Nazara Wambui have a lot to celebrate. Hilda says Nazara had to be patient while Hilda was in classes and doing tons of homework to complete her degree. Now she says Nazara might get to to to Chuckie Cheese since Hilda has more free time. "But that's why you do it," she said. "You do it for them."

All ROTC graduates are commissioned at commencement, but it was even more special for Army Cadet Kaitlyn Inch ('12), a business administration major. She was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant by her father, Brigadier General Mark Inch.

Carl Bowlby ('12) can't hold back the excitement of graduation festivities. The Missouri native earned a degree in theatre.